As of 2018, Franklin Park is the 123rd busiest of Metra's 236 non-downtown stations, with an average of 392 weekday boardings.

With the two north tracks used by Metra and two south tracks used for freight (Canadian Pacific) as well as frequent Metra and freight action, Franklin Park and nearby smaller stations (Belmont Avenue and Mannheim) are a favorite of railfans.

This tower, constructed in the 1890s, was located at the intersection of the MD-W line and the Canadian National (ex-Soo Line/Wisconsin Central) tracks.

In late 2004, the state of Illinois, along with CP, CN, and the Indiana Harbor Belt, took part in and executed a major rail relocation plan.

Following the project, the old IHB right-of-way north of the railroad's Norpaul Yard became Martens Street.